Stress headaches can be incredibly debilitating, making it difficult to focus, work, or simply enjoy life. These headaches are often caused by tension and tightness in the neck and shoulders resulting from stress and anxiety.

While there are various ways to combat stress headaches, yoga offers a natural and effective solution. With its combination of movement, deep breathing, and relaxation, yoga can help release tension and promote overall well-being.

In this article, we will explore ten easy yoga moves that you can incorporate into your daily routine to alleviate stress headaches.

1. Seated Neck Rolls

Start by sitting comfortably with a straight back and relaxed shoulders. Gently drop your right ear towards your right shoulder, taking a few deep breaths. Slowly roll your head forwards, bringing your chin towards your chest.

Gradually continue the movement, bringing your left ear towards your left shoulder. Repeat this rolling motion, alternating sides, for several rounds.

2. Cat-Cow Stretch

Come onto all fours with your hands beneath your shoulders and knees under your hips. As you inhale, arch your back and lift your head and tailbone towards the sky, creating a smooth curve.

As you exhale, round your spine upwards, tucking your chin towards your chest. Repeat this gentle flow several times, synchronizing each movement with your breath.

3. Forward Fold

Stand with your feet hip-width apart and slowly fold forward, hinging from your hips. Allow your head and neck to relax completely as your upper body hangs forward. Bend your knees slightly if needed.

Feel the stretch in your hamstrings and let go of any tension in your neck and shoulders. Stay in this position for a few breaths before slowly returning to standing.

4. Child’s Pose

Kneel on the floor with your knees wide apart and your big toes touching. Slowly lower your buttocks onto your feet and bend forward, reaching your arms forward as well. Rest your forehead on the mat or a pillow if it can provide more comfort.

Take slow, deep breaths and let go of any stress or tension in your body.

5. Supported Shoulder Stand

Lie on your back and bring your legs up towards the ceiling, supporting your lower back with your hands. Slowly lift your hips off the floor, coming into a shoulder stand. Keep your neck and head in line with your spine, gazing towards your toes.

This inversion pose helps increase blood flow to the brain and alleviate tension in the neck and shoulders. Stay in this pose for a few breaths before slowly releasing.

6. Bridge Pose

Lie on your back with your feet hip-width apart and directly under your knees. Slowly lift your hips off the ground, pressing your feet into the mat. Interlace your hands beneath your hips, pressing your forearms into the ground.

Breathe deeply, allowing your neck and shoulders to relax. Hold this pose for a few breaths before gently lowering your hips back down.

7. Eagle Arms Stretch

Sit or stand with your spine straight and your feet firmly planted on the ground. Raise your arms to shoulder height and cross your right arm over your left, bringing your palms to touch.

Bend your elbows, bringing the back of your hands towards each other. If possible, bring your palms together. Lift your elbows and take a few deep breaths, feeling the stretch between your shoulder blades. Repeat on the opposite side.

8. Seated Forward Bend

Sit on the floor with your legs extended in front of you. Inhale deeply and lengthen your spine. As you exhale, bend forward from your hips, reaching towards your feet. Relax your neck and shoulders as you fold forward.

If you are unable to reach your feet, you can use a strap or belt around the soles of your feet. Stay in this pose for a few breaths before slowly coming back up.

9. Standing Forward Fold with Shoulder Opener

Stand with your feet hip-width apart and interlace your hands behind your lower back. As you fold forward, allow your hands to move up towards the ceiling, stretching your shoulders.

Keep your knees slightly bent to release tension in your lower back and hamstrings. Relax your head and neck as you hold this stretch for a few breaths before coming back up.

10. Legs-Up-The-Wall Pose

Lie on your back and extend your legs up against a wall. Keep your arms by your sides with your palms facing up. Close your eyes and relax your entire body, allowing the wall to support your legs.

This pose promotes relaxation and helps drain excess fluid from the legs. Stay in this position for several minutes, focusing on your breath.